What is a Rating Field Inspector (RFI)? A Rating Field Inspector (RFI) is an entry-level position in the HERS Industry. An RFI gathers data in the field by conducting on-site inspections and running diagnostic tests on buildings. The RFI collects data to verify whether various building components, such as insulation, HVAC systems, and windows, are installed the same way they were called for in the building plans. RFIs work under the guidance of a certified Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Rater.
What is a HERS Modeler? A HERS Modeler is an also entry-level position in the HERS Industry. A modeler takes the data gathered in the field and puts it into a specialized software system to create an energy model of the building that is used to calculate it's overall energy efficiency. Modelers also work under the guidance of a certified Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Rater.
What is a HERS Rater? A HERS Rater is a kind of energy auditor who both collects data in the field (as an RFI does) and inputs it into the energy modeling software (as a modeler does). The rater can also use the collected data to analyze the energy efficiency of a building by calculating the HERS Index score and make recommendations to builders, designers and homeowners about how to improve the energy efficiency of a building. RESNET Certified HERS Raters are qualified to perform duct tightness and blower door testing for home builders, certify projects for the ENERGY STAR program (after also completing the Energy Star Certified Homes Program), rate new homes in all states (except CA), and assist homeowners with problems such as ice dams, moisture, and mold.
What is the HERS Index? The HERS Index is the gold standard for energy efficiency ratings of buildings. Over 4 million homes have been issued a HERS Index Score in the US.
What does it mean that RFIs and HERS Modelers operate under a HERS Rater? RFIs and HERS Modelers work closely with a certified HERS Rater throughout the energy assessment process. The HERS Rater provides guidance and oversight to ensure that both field assessments and energy models are conducted accurately and in accordance with industry standards. Only a certified HERS Rater can sign off on a HERS rating that is uploaded into the RESNET registry.
Why is the mentorship pilot project only open to Massachusetts residents? NEHERS has received an grant funding from MassCEC in order to run this mentorship program and the funds are only for Massachusetts residents at this time.
What if I don't live in MA but I would like to participate? NEHERS will be funding one scholarship slot for candidates who live outside of MA for each HERS Rater Training. Application information can be found under each training listed on our training page. However, scholarship recipients from outside of MA will not receive mentorship programming (needs assessment, wrap around services or job placement support), but they will receive a waiver on tuition for the program, as well as, meals and lodging for the field portion of the training. There are currently no slots available in our RFI or Modeler Mentorship Program for students outside of MA.
What is the time commitment involved for a participant in this Mentorship Program as an RFI or HERS Modeler Candidate?
- RFI: class meets from 5:00-7:00 PM Weeknights for 6-8 weeks and RFIs must do a minimum of 20 hours job shadowing before doing their mentored ratings.
- Modeler: class meets from 5:00 - 7:00 PM Weeknights for 6-8 weeks and Modelers must do a minimum of 10 hours job shadowing before doing their mentored ratings.
We anticipate that it will be a time commitment of approximately 10-15 hours a week from September through November (for Fall Cohorts) in order to complete the online modules with the class, conduct the mentored field ratings or models, and take the exams. Upon successful completion of the training, candidates will be considered for full-time employment by the employer with whom they are paired at the beginning of the training.
What will the schedule be for this program as an RFI or HERS Modeler Candidate?
The schedule will be as follows:
- September and October: progress as a class through recorded online modules and complete job shadowing field time requirements.
- November: work on mentored ratings or models and take exams.
- December: begin of the transition into the workplace.
- January, February and March: ongoing case management support.
What is the time commitment involved for a participant in this Mentorship Program as a HERS Rater Candidate?
Please see the schedule for the fall HERS Rater Training here. Candidates who previously completed our RFI or HERS Modeler training will be given preference for mentored seats in our HERS Rater Training. In addition to attending class, HERS Rater Candidates will meet weekly for case management and also weekly with an assigned career mentor.
Is there any cost for candidates to participate in this program? No, there are no registration fees.
Are there stipends or subsidized wages for participants in this program? Applicants may apply for stipends for the Fall 2024 Cohort.
What exams do an RFIs and HERS Modelers have to take? An RFI candidate must pass the Combustion Safety (RESCAZ) Exam and a HERS Modeler must pass the HERS Modeler Practical Evaluation.
What are mentored ratings or mentored rating models? Mentored ratings or models are practice ratings or models conducted under the supervision of an experienced rater.
What are the steps to becoming an RFI?
- Complete at least three mentored ratings under the supervision of a certified HERS Rater or Candidate Field Assessor
- Pass the RESCAZ Exam
- Pass the Final Graded Field Evaluation under the supervision of a Candidate Field Assessor
Additional information about becoming an RFI can be found here.
What are the steps to becoming a HERS Modeler?
- Take an accredited training from a RESNET-Certified Training Provider
- Complete at least three mentored rating models as part of the training.
- Pass the HERS Modeler Practical Evaluation
- Successfully complete a minimum of two additional probationary rating models under the supervision of a Rating Quality Assurance Provider for each RESNET Accredited Software Tool they use.
Additional information about becoming a HERS Modeler can be found here.
What are the steps to becoming a HERS Rater?
- Take an accredited training from a RESNET-Certified Training Provider
- During our training: complete two of the five probationary ratings required by RESNET
- Pass the CAZ exam (not required if already passed as an RFI)
- Pass the Practical Simulation Exam
- Pass the Written HERS Rater Exam
- Upon Completion of our Training, complete your remaining 3 probationary ratings with your employer.
Additional information about becoming a HERS Rater can be found here.